?This is local history at its best. John Hanc’s lively, absorbing narrative is both nostalgic and sophisticated.”?Barnet Schecter, author of The Battle for New York and The Devil’s Own Work

?A delightful read, a nostalgic, absorbing trip back in time to the origins and the halcyon days of a treasured New York institution.” ?Kevin Baker, author of Dreamland and Paradise Alley

?[A]ny citizen of New York will be proud to have this book in their collection.”

?Donald J. Trump

Jones Beach looms large in the hearts and lives of millions of New Yorkers. From its windswept beginnings on the far edge of an empire to its twentieth-century status as the greatest public beachfront resort in America, it has been home to countless memories. Situated on a barrier island linked to Long Island, Jones Beach State Park is today the most popular beach on the East Coast, with some six million visitors a year.

In this evocative illustrated book, John Hanc explores the traditions, institutions, controversies, and characters of this beloved seaside resort, now a state historic landmark. His richly detailed prose comes together with a wonderful collection of archival photographs to make this a must read for anyone who has visited Jones Beach. The foreword is by ?Mr. Long Island,” longtime former Newsday columnist Ed Lowe.